Connecticut Hospitals Implement Mask Mandates for Staff

In response to a surge in respiratory illnesses, Yale New Haven Health has mandated that staff must wear masks when interacting with patients, effective January 15. Approximately 100 patients are currently hospitalized with COVID, flu, or RSV, prompting the hospital to take extra precautions. While patients and visitors are encouraged to wear masks, this is only required in specific situations, such as when patients show respiratory symptoms. Trinity Health of New England has also recommended masking in its facilities as cases of upper respiratory infections rise. Health officials emphasize the importance of these measures to protect vulnerable patients, particularly those undergoing treatments like chemotherapy or organ transplants. The situation will be monitored closely, with the possibility of lifting the mask requirement in the spring if conditions improve.